Let Me Hear You Whisper (NET Playhouse)

Let Me Hear You Whisper is a television play written by Paul Zindel, originally broadcast on the PBS anthology series NET Playhouse on March 26, 1969. The production is a drama centered around Helen, a cleaning lady working in a biological research laboratory, who develops an emotional connection with a dolphin being used for experimentation.

The plot revolves around the scientists' plans to vivisect the dolphin to learn how it communicates. Helen discovers these plans and, horrified, attempts to rescue the dolphin, believing it is intelligent and capable of feeling. The play explores themes of animal rights, human compassion versus scientific ambition, and the importance of understanding and respecting other living beings.

Let Me Hear You Whisper gained significant attention for its sensitive portrayal of the issues it addressed. It was directed by Glenn Jordan and starred Mildred Dunnock as Helen. The play's success led to subsequent stage adaptations and further discussion regarding animal welfare in scientific research. The NET Playhouse production is considered a significant work in the history of television drama and remains a frequently cited example of socially conscious programming from that era.